Annual championships move to Irvine June 12–19, 2027, in partnership with the City of Irvine, offering athletes a new destination, new venues and new opportunities to connect
The California Police Athletic Federation, a dedicated non-profit organization promoting sports and physical fitness among first responders, today announced that the 2027 United States Police & Fire Championships (USPFC) will be held in Irvine, California, from June 12–19, 2027, in partnership with the City of Irvine. For the first time in the history of the championships, the USPFC will bring thousands of law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical personnel and other first responders to Irvine for a week of competition, connection and community.
The move to Irvine marks a new chapter for the USPFC, allowing athletes to experience new venues, explore a new community and create new memories with the people who understand the unique demands of serving others.
“We are proud of the history the USPFC has built in San Diego, and we are excited to bring them to Irvine for 2027,” said King. “This is an opportunity to try something new, give our athletes a new experience and introduce them to everything Irvine and Orange County have to offer. Most importantly, wherever the Championships are held, they remain a place where first responders can come together, compete, connect and belong.”
The City of Irvine approached CPAF about bringing the championships to the community, creating an opportunity to introduce USPFC athletes and their families to one of Southern California’s most vibrant destinations. The 2027 USPFC will be held in partnership with the City of Irvine, which will welcome athletes and their families throughout the week.
“We are excited to welcome the United States Police and Fire Championships to Irvine and look forward to making our fellow first responders and their families feel at home,” said Irvine Police Chief Michael Kent. “These championships bring together people who share a commitment to service and a dedication to teamwork and fitness. We’re proud to partner with the California Police Athletic Federation in celebrating 60 years of this tradition and bringing our community together to cheer on these exceptional athletes.”
Located in the heart of Orange County, Irvine offers athletes an abundance of opportunities to experience Southern California outside of competition. With beaches, parks, restaurants, shopping, entertainment and world-renowned attractions all within easy reach, athletes and their families can make the most of their time in the region between events.
The USPFC’s experience has always extended beyond the playing field. For first responders, the USPFC provide an outlet from the pressures and demands of the job; a chance to step away from the daily routine, pursue something personally meaningful and spend time with people who share a common understanding of service.
The 2027 championships will also mark the 60th anniversary of the USPFC. The USPFC traces its roots to 1967, when it was founded in San Diego as the “California Police Olympics” by Police Lieutenant Veon “Duke” Nyhus. The event was created to promote physical fitness and camaraderie among law enforcement officers and has grown over six decades into a national event welcoming thousands of first responders each year.
Each year, thousands of athletes from law enforcement, firefighting, emergency medical services, customs, and corrections come together to compete. Participants include both active and retired full-time personnel from eligible agencies, as well as 9-1-1 dispatchers, detention and custodial officers, crime scene investigators, lifeguards, and volunteer and part-time firefighters. Representing a wide range of public safety roles, these dedicated individuals compete across numerous Olympic-style events, exemplifying the human spirit at its finest.
The 60th anniversary will celebrate that history while looking toward the future — with Irvine serving as the backdrop for the next chapter. Additional information about the 2027 U.S. Police & Fire Championships, including events, venues and registration, will be announced in the coming months. To learn more about the USPFC and the California Police Athletic Federation, visit www.cpaf.org.
